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If you’re drawn to the gripping tale of high-stakes land negotiations in “Landman,” where oil deals run into the millions, you might also enjoy exploring the diverse filmography of its gifted cast, especially Jacob Lofland. Although young, Lofland commands attention in his role as Cooper Norris, a character who embodies both ambition and a touch of innocence amid the cutthroat oil industry. Lofland’s portfolio is impressive, including a pivotal project that reignited Matthew McConaughey’s career.
Emerson Miller/Paramount+
For a period, McConaughey was associated with underwhelming romantic comedies and the puzzling “Tiptoes.” However, the early 2010s marked his resurgence. While his Oscar-winning performance in “Dallas Buyers Club” was a milestone, it was his role in “Mud” that truly showcased his dramatic prowess. In “Mud,” McConaughey takes on the titular role of a fugitive seeking refuge on a boat, enlisting the help of two boys, Ellis (Tye Sheridan) and Neckbone (Lofland), in his quest for freedom.
With a stellar 97% approval on Rotten Tomatoes and earning $32 million from a $10 million budget, “Mud” affirmed McConaughey’s ability to lead a serious drama. This film marked a significant shift in his career trajectory, paving the way for roles in “Dallas Buyers Club,” “Interstellar,” and “True Detective.” Lofland, too, benefited enormously from the experience of working with McConaughey.
“Mud” was Jacob Lofland’s debut into the acting world. Having participated in school plays, it was an open casting call for “Mud” that caught his mother’s eye. He triumphed over dozens of hopefuls to secure the role, setting off a prosperous career that included joining the “Maze Runner” series. He would later collaborate with McConaughey again in 2016’s “Free State of Jones,” an experience that profoundly influenced his perception of acting.
Reflecting on their initial encounter, Lofland and McConaughey shared insights in an Interview magazine discussion. Lofland acknowledged the lessons he learned from McConaughey: “You taught me the most on ‘Mud,’” he reminisced. “You always show up for your scene partners and give 110%. You don’t leave until the day is done. That is what started me off, and then keeping that mindset going and meeting all these other people who are dedicated to the craft, it makes you want to work harder.”
Jacob Lofland learned much from Matthew McConaughey on Mud
Lionsgate
Lofland’s dedication is evident in his performance on “Landman,” which has become a major success for Paramount+, garnering favorable critiques, including praise from Looper for its “oil cowboy machismo.” Interestingly, Lofland confessed to McConaughey that if he hadn’t discovered his passion for acting through “Mud,” he might have ended up working on an oil rig, much like his character in “Landman.” Some paths seem destined from the start.
Years after they had first met, Lofland and McConaughey spoke with each other for Interview magazine. Lofland revealed what he took away from McConaughey: “You taught me the most on ‘Mud,’” he recalled. “You always show up for your scene partners and give 110%. You don’t leave until the day is done. That is what started me off, and then keeping that mindset going and meeting all these other people who are dedicated to the craft, it makes you want to work harder.”
Lofland has certainly been putting in the work, culminating in his “Landman” stint. The show’s been a huge hit for Paramount+ with mostly positive reviews — including from Looper, which praised its “oil cowboy machismo.” Intriguingly, Lofland admitted during his chat with McConaughey that if he didn’t get a taste for acting on “Mud,” he probably would have wound up working on an oil rig, much like how his “Landman” character works as a roughneck. Some things just seem destined to be.
